Curator's notes: Fuji from Tago Bay by Tsuchiya Koitsu is a Japanese woodblock print depicting Mount Fuji as seen from Tago Bay in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The print was created by the artist Tsuchiya Koitsu in the early 20th century and is considered to be one of his most iconic works. The print features a serene and peaceful scene of Mount Fuji rising above the bay, with boats and fishing nets in the foreground. The colors and composition of the print are considered to be masterful, and it is considered to be a classic example of the Shin Hanga art movement.
Curator's notes: Mount Fuji from Lake Sai, Evening is a breathtaking masterpiece of art by Tsuchiya Koitsu, a prominent Japanese painter known for his picturesque landscapes. This particular piece of art, exudes a sense of serenity and tranquility as it depicts the majestic Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, looming in the background. The painting captures the moment of dusk, as the sun sets over the lake, casting a warm and mellow glow over the scene. The lake is placid and serene, reflecting the image of the mountain, creating a perfect mirror image. The colors used in this piece are soft and subdued, creating a feeling of calm and serenity. The painting is a true ode to the natural beauty of Japan, and the artist's ability to capture the essence of the scene is truly remarkable.
Curator's notes: Lake Ashi in the Hakone Hills is a picturesque and serene body of water located in the Hakone region of Japan. The lake is surrounded by lush, verdant hills, and is often depicted in art as a place of natural beauty and tranquility. One such depiction is a print by the famous Japanese artist Tsuchiya Koitsu, entitled "Lake Ashi in the Hakone Hills in Early Autumn." The print captures the idyllic and ethereal ambiance of the lake during the autumn season. The water is depicted as a tranquil expanse of serenity, with the autumnal hues of the surrounding hills providing a striking contrast. The image is a feast for the eyes, with the intricate details of the trees and the reflections on the water, as well as the use of vibrant colors, creating a harmonious and evocative scene. It is a true masterpiece that showcases the artist's virtuosity in capturing the essence of the lake in the most picturesque time of the year.
Curator's notes: "The River Banyu In Springtime" is a delightful piece of art painted by Tsuchiya Koitsu, a renowned Japanese artist known for his masterful landscape paintings. The painting depicts the River Banyu in all its verdant splendor as it winds its way through the lush, verdant landscape of springtime. The water is depicted as a shimmering ribbon of azure, meandering through the idyllic countryside, dotted with willow trees and wildflowers. The colors of the painting are particularly striking, with the vibrant hues of springtime blending together to create a harmonious and serene image. The artist has used an array of intricate brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and movement, making the painting come alive. The painting is a true testament to Koitsu's virtuosity and a visual feast for the eyes.
Curator's notes: Asakusa Rice Fields and Festival of Torinomachi is a woodblock print created by the famous Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige. The print is part of his series "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo" and depicts the Asakusa district of Edo (now Tokyo) during the Torinomachi festival. The festival is held annually to celebrate the harvest of the rice fields in Asakusa and is a major event in the area. The print shows the lush green rice fields with people in traditional dress celebrating and participating in the festival. It also features the famous Asakusa Temple in the background. The print is considered a masterpiece of Hiroshige's work and is an important representation of Edo-era culture and tradition.
Curator's notes: "Ryū shōten," also known as "Dragon's Waterfall," is a masterpiece created by the Japanese artist Ogata Gekkō. This stunning work of art showcases a serene waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff, with a dragon coiled around the rock face. The dragon's body seems to blend seamlessly with the water, creating an ethereal and otherworldly effect. Gekkō's use of color and composition in "Ryū shōten" is nothing short of masterful. The deep blues and greens of the water contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of the rocks and the dragon's scales. The composition is carefully balanced, with the dragon's body serving as a counterpoint to the waterfall's movement. The overall effect is one of harmonious coexistence between the natural and the fantastical. "Ryū shōten" is a true tour de force, showcasing Gekkō's virtuosity as an artist and his ability to imbue his work with a sense of mysticism and wonder. It is a testament to his artistic prowess and a feast for the eyes of any onlooker.
Curator's notes: The Kawasaki Tsurumi River and Namamugi Village artwork by Hiroshige is a true feast for the eyes. This stunning creation features a captivating composition that is simply mesmerizing. The intricate details and vivid color palette are truly exceptional, capturing the essence of this tranquil river and quaint village in a truly unique way. As you gaze upon the piece, you'll notice the lush greenery that lines the river banks, giving way to a serene body of water that winds its way through the landscape. In the distance, you'll see the Namamugi Village, with its traditional wooden houses and intricate rooflines. The buildings seem to nestle amidst the rolling hills and lush trees, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. What makes this artwork so exceptional is the use of texture and line. The artist has masterfully combined thick, flowing lines with delicate brushstrokes, creating a sense of depth and movement that is truly captivating. The use of vibrant hues adds a pop of color to the scene, bringing it to life in a way that is simply unforgettable. Overall, the Kawasaki Tsurumi River and Namamugi Village by Hiroshige is a masterful work of art that truly captures the beauty and serenity of this idyllic location. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, this piece is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Curator's notes: Fūkeiga is a type of Japanese landscape painting that was popular during the Edo period (1603-1868). The term Fūkeiga, which translates to "wind and moon landscapes," refers to paintings that depict natural landscapes with an emphasis on the effects of wind and moonlight on the scene. The artist Andō, Hiroshige was one of the most renowned practitioners of Fūkeiga during his time and is best known for his series "Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō Road," which features a variety of landscapes along the Tōkaidō road that connects Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo). These paintings are considered some of the greatest examples of Fūkeiga and have had a significant influence on Japanese art and culture.
Curator's notes: The Shore of Tago Bay, Ejiri at Tokaido is an illustration by the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. The print depicts a picturesque view of the shoreline of Tago Bay, located in the Ejiri area of the Tokaido Road. The Tokaido Road was an ancient and crucial route that linked the cities of Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and Kyoto, and it was a popular subject for Hokusai's work. The print showcases the serene and idyllic scenery of Tago Bay, with gentle waves lapping at the shore and verdant greenery lining the coast. The scenery is punctuated by a small fishing village, with traditional thatched-roof houses and boats dotting the landscape. The colors used in the print are rich and vibrant, lending an air of tranquil beauty to the scene. The Shore of Tago Bay, Ejiri at Tokaido, is a masterful representation of the natural splendor and rustic charm of the region, and it is a quintessential example of Hokusai's artistry and virtuosity.
Curator's notes: Fine Wind, Clear Morning (also known as Red Fuji) is a woodblock print created by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai in 1831. It is considered one of his most iconic works and is part of his series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji. The print features a striking depiction of Mount Fuji set against a clear blue sky, with a red sunrise in the background. The print is known for its bold colors and dynamic composition, which captures the majesty and beauty of Mount Fuji in a powerful and evocative way. It is considered a masterpiece of Japanese art and is widely considered one of the greatest works of Hokusai's career.
Curator's notes: The Inume Pass is a location in Kai Province, Japan that is depicted in a print by the famous Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. It is a mountainous pass that is known for its steep incline and winding road. The print, which is part of Hokusai's series "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji," shows a group of travelers making their way through the pass with Mount Fuji looming in the background. The Inume Pass is considered to be one of the most difficult and treacherous routes in the province, and the print captures the sense of danger and awe that one might feel while traversing it.
Curator's notes: Ten Views of Fuji, by Yoshida Mura, is a collection of woodblock prints that depicts the iconic mountain in a variety of different settings and seasons. Each print showcases the majestic peaks of Mount Fuji in a unique and evocative way, capturing the grandeur and splendor of the mountain in all its glory. The prints are characterized by their intricate details, rich colors, and masterful use of perspective, which imbue each image with a sense of depth and movement. The series is widely considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese art, and it is an enduring testament to the skill and artistic virtuosity of Yoshida Mura. The series is an excellent example of the sublime beauty and wonder of nature, that is often overlooked in our daily lives.